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Rabies, microchip clinic offered in Crystal Lake

Is your dog up-to-date on the rabies vaccination? For minimal cost, you can reserve an appointment and ensure your dog is current by calling (815) 459-6222 to reserve a spot at the rabies vaccination and microchipping clinic in Crystal Lake.

The clinic will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 8, at McHenry County Animal Control and Adoption Center, 100 N. Virginia Road in Crystal Lake.

Microchips will be available for $5. The rabies vaccine is $15 for one year and $30 for three years. Registration fees are additional and vary depending on factors such as if your pet is spayed or neutered. Registration is required by law for dogs in McHenry County and tags must be purchased at the time of vaccination.

If you just need to microchip your pet, a microchip only walk-in clinic will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 6. Microchips will be provided at both clinics by McHenry County Department of Health's Emergency Response Program for a $5 administrative fee.

"Studies show that the success rate for reuniting microchipped pets with their owner greatly increases over that of non-microchipped pets," said Patti Corn, Emergency Response Facilitator for McHenry County Department of Health.

Meaghan Haak, Community Health Coordinator, added "We've seen firsthand from the recent hurricanes just how easy it is to lose track of your pet in a disaster. Microchipping helps give you a little peace of mind that you'll find your pet."

According to the Centers for Disease and Control, more than 59,000 people worldwide die from rabies each year. There is no cure for rabies, and it is almost always fatal. Rabies vaccinations provide your pet with the best protection against this disease.

Petfinders offers some sobering statistics for non-microchipped pets. In a recent study, only 22 percent of lost dogs that entered animal shelters were reunited with their families. However, the return-to-owner rate for microchipped dogs was over 52 percent. And for cats, less than two percent of lost cats (in shelters) were reunited with their families. The return-to-owner rate for microchipped cats was dramatically higher at over 38 percent.

For safety purposes, it is strongly suggested that children not attend this busy event. All pets must be leashed or in carriers. Do not bring animals that are in heat. Information about bite history or dogs that are easily stressed will requested when making an appointment. More information is available by calling (815) 459-6222 or visiting www.mcdh.info.

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